The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) says it is intensifying efforts to fast-track the acquisition of 24 M-346 fighter ground attack aircraft, 10 AW-109 Trekker helicopters, and additional Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) to strengthen its operational readiness.
The Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, disclosed this at the Christmas luncheon of the Air Component, Operation Fansan Yamma, Sector 1, held in Kaduna on Thursday.
He was represented at the event by the Chief of Logistics at NAF Headquarters, Air Vice Marshal Alfred Shogbanmu.
According to him, beyond the defence of Nigeria’s airspace, the Air Force remains committed to safeguarding the foundations of society and securing the future of the nation.
“Your resilience, sacrifice and bravery in the line of duty have made it possible for millions of Nigerians to enjoy this season in peace and tranquillity.
“As we are all aware, Christmas is a season of togetherness, sharing and compassion,” he said.
He noted that while many Nigerians were celebrating the season with their families, personnel deployed in various theatres of operations remained steadfast in the defence of the nation.
“Some of you remain here in the theatre of operations, standing firm as the true guardians of our nation’s peace and security.
“For this, the entire nation is deeply grateful, from the highest levels of leadership to ordinary citizens across the country,” he added.
The Air Force chief said Nigerians recognised and appreciated the sacrifices made by personnel, especially during the festive period.
He also paid tribute to fallen officers who paid the supreme price in the service of the nation.
“At this juncture, I wish to solemnly honour the memory of our gallant heroes who paid the supreme price in the service of our fatherland.
“Their sacrifice will never be forgotten, and their courage will forever remain etched in the collective conscience of our nation. May their souls rest in perfect peace,” he said.
According to him, the NAF’s command philosophy is focused on sustaining a highly motivated, professional and mission-ready force capable of delivering decisive airpower effects in synergy with ground forces to achieve national security objectives.
He noted that while kinetic operations remained essential, they must be complemented by non-kinetic approaches.
He said President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda provided a viable framework for addressing the root causes of insurgency and terrorism through social justice, economic empowerment and equitable development.
The Air Force chief commended President Tinubu for his commitment to meeting the training, welfare and operational needs of the NAF.
He also expressed appreciation to the Minister of Defence, the Minister of State for Defence and the Chief of Defence Staff for their continued support.
“You embody the spirit of sacrifice and commitment to duty, and you are the pride of our nation.
“Your sacrifices will not go unrewarded, and I will continue to ensure that you have the support, resources and recognition you deserve,” he said.
Earlier, the Air Component Commander, Operation Fansan Yamma Sector 1, Air Commodore Okechukwu Okpara, said the occasion also provided an opportunity to remember colleagues who lost their lives in the line of duty.
Okpara said the prevailing security challenges required a robust security architecture capable of rapid deployment of airpower across the full spectrum of warfare.
He said the Air Component of Operation Fansan Yamma had continued to provide critical air support to ground forces, significantly curtailing terrorist activities and denying criminal elements freedom of action.
“Our efforts have been instrumental in degrading, denying and deterring terrorists.
“I commend all officers, airmen and airwomen for their unwavering commitment and sacrifices,” he said.
He urged personnel to remain resolute in confronting insurgents, armed bandits and other criminal elements until peace and stability were fully restored in their area of operation and across the country.